Posts by Jay Isidor

There is a lot of information regarding planning ahead and continuum of companion care services presented in the various forms of social media, commercials, print, radio and community presentations. Planning ahead is an important part of being prepared for changes the future may bring. Consider these approaches as you develop a plan of care: Holistic…

So often, when we hear the word “downsizing,” we think of moving to a smaller residence; less or no yard, fewer rooms to clean, a smaller area with lower expenses. When providing at home caregiving, especially in a situation in which the one you are caring for moves in with you, it does seem like…

Many people are finding that they are living longer than they planned for financially. The expense and upkeep of a home can start to become a burden when you are trying to make ends meet. There are several things to consider in deciding if it might be time to make a change. If you have…

Gait is one of the most affected motor characteristics of Parkinson’s disease. While Parkinson’s disease affects each person differently, falls are a common challenge to address. Sometimes your mind moves faster than your legs, and you may have already mentally turned the corner while your foot is trying to keep up. The Parkinsonian gait is…

At no time has my mental and physical fitness been tested as severely as when I was a caregiver for my parents. The mental strain of worry, trying to stay organized, worry, working, attempting to carry on a reasonable life, and worry certainly took its toll. Helping move my mother around when she lost the…

Q: My mom is very independent and active, but she has had some recent episodes of incontinence. This can be very embarrassing for her, and I don’t want to see her give up the things she loves doing. Can you offer any tips to help her manage this?   A: Incontinence is a much more…

Q: My friend was recently in the hospital after having a fall and hurting her knee. The hospital told her that she would need some type of rehab and explained that she would be evaluated for options. My friend is adamant that she wants to rehab at home. What are her options?   A: Many…

Q: Should we stay or should we go? My wife and I have been trying to decide if we should move to a retirement community. We have a lovely home on the lake, and would hate to leave it. What do you think?   A: Moving is a very personal decision and much of it…

Q: My mother had a big change last year. She became a widow and her father passed away within six months of each other. Both were unexpected. Now, she lives with our family. While she has her own living space, I still want her to get back to her life. What are some ways we…

Q: My neighbor came over last week and said that his wife had taken off walking and he could not find her. We know she has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, but have never talked with them about it in detail. My husband helped him locate her and get her back home. Thankfully she was…